Francis James Riley

Francis James Jim Riley, age 78 of Readstown, died Monday December 26, 2016 at home surrounded by loved ones and caregivers. Jim was born in La Crosse to Francis and Gertrude (Buelt) Riley on November 30, 1938. On June 2, 1967 he found the love of his life Alice Arlene Howell, nearly 50 years ago. Jim was a trucker all his life, early on for area dairies, but mostly as a hauler for Ed Kramer & Sons doing road construction. Even when he wasn't working he was driving, usually in his pick-up camper with his lifelong partner Arlene. In the off-season (winter) they would love to travel together to Mississippi, Alabama or Arizona. When at home, Jim enjoyed fishing and hunting big and small game. His favorite hobby included gardening and preserving or canning what came up each year and passing out the goodies to family and friends. He had a favorite saying that 'he was allergic to doctors, nurses and hospitals' as friends came to realize his 'likes' list was shorter than his dislikes. However, his intuitive nature proved time and again that he was a handy man to have around. Jim is survived today by his lifetime friend, mate and companion Arlene, his seven brothers and sister; Dennis (Irene) Riley of Biloxi MS, Michael (Shirley) Riley of Liberty Pole, Patrick Riley of Fort Wayne IN, Terry Riley of La Crosse, Jerry (Irene) Riley of Viroqua, Eileen Riley of La Crosse, and Kevin (Jill) Riley of Silt CO, and many nieces and nephews. Survived by Arlenes Children Judy (Richard) Nelson of Florida, Janet Coleman of Westby, Joan Glass of Readstown, and Rodney (Roxanne) Howell of Prairie Du Chein. Also surviving are his 'adopted' grandchildren, Cheryl (Randy) Halverson, Rodney (Krystal) Howell and Vickie (Kent Philips) Schneider and numerous 'adopted' grandchildren, great and great-great grandchildren whom he loved to spoil, and Arlenes sister, Betty (Tom) Harvey. And finally he leaves behind, his pet and beloved friend Suzie. Jim was preceded in death by his parents, and an infant brother William, and Arlenes son-in-law, Gary Glass. Funeral services for Jim will be Friday December 30, 2016 at 1:00 P.M. at the Vosseteig-Larson Funeral Home, 123 W. Decker St. in Viroqua. Reverend Steven Fossum will officiate. Friends may call during a visitation from 11:00 A.M. to 1:00 P.M. prior to the service. In lieu of flowers or plants memorials are preferred. On-line condolences may be offered at www.vossfh.com The Vosseteig-Larson Funeral Home in Viroqua is serving the family.